GENEVA — Mercedes-Benz is using its new GLK compact crossover as the base for a new diesel-electric hybrid powertrain that it expects to put into production in 2009.
The Vision GLK Bluetec Hybrid concept is powered by an advanced version of the company's 2.2-liter four-cylinder common-rail turbodiesel, rated at 224 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque. Performance figures are impressive — zero to 60 mph in less than 7.3 seconds and a top speed of 134 mph — yet the GLK Bluetec Hybrid returns up to 40 mpg.
Mercedes says the Bluetec Hybrid powertrain has ultralow CO2 emissions and meets such stringent global standards as EU6 in Europe and Bin5 in the United States.
The company uses a small electric motor between the engine and the automatic transmission to act as both a generator and starter. The motor not only enhances fuel economy but also improves performance, especially under acceleration. The powertrain also employs a stop-start system that shuts off the engine at idle. Electrical energy is stored in a lithium-ion battery pack.
The standard GLK goes on sale this fall in various markets. A production version of the GLK Bluetec Hybrid is anticipated for model year 2010.
What this means to you: The latest in what could become an avalanche of new diesel-hybrids from European automakers. — Paul Lienert, Correspondent
The Vision GLK Bluetec Hybrid concept is powered by an advanced version of the company's 2.2-liter four-cylinder common-rail turbodiesel, rated at 224 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque. Performance figures are impressive — zero to 60 mph in less than 7.3 seconds and a top speed of 134 mph — yet the GLK Bluetec Hybrid returns up to 40 mpg.
Mercedes says the Bluetec Hybrid powertrain has ultralow CO2 emissions and meets such stringent global standards as EU6 in Europe and Bin5 in the United States.
The company uses a small electric motor between the engine and the automatic transmission to act as both a generator and starter. The motor not only enhances fuel economy but also improves performance, especially under acceleration. The powertrain also employs a stop-start system that shuts off the engine at idle. Electrical energy is stored in a lithium-ion battery pack.
The standard GLK goes on sale this fall in various markets. A production version of the GLK Bluetec Hybrid is anticipated for model year 2010.
What this means to you: The latest in what could become an avalanche of new diesel-hybrids from European automakers. — Paul Lienert, Correspondent
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